Federal Judge Upholds Controversial ICE Surge Amid Protests

Tue Feb 03 2026 14:19:29 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A federal judge has decided not to block the deployment of ICE agents in Minnesota, prompting widespread protests over recent fatal shootings involving federal agents.

In a recent ruling, federal judge Katherine Menendez denied a request by the Minnesota government to block the surge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis. This decision follows significant public outcry and protests nationwide against the deployment, ignited by the deaths of two individuals. While Judge Menendez acknowledged the operations' severe impact on the community, she ruled that the deployment did not violate any laws. Protests, dubbed ‘National Shutdown,’ are planned to express opposition towards ICE's actions and demand accountability. Demonstrations have drawn attention, with activists forming an 'SOS' signal on a lake as a call for action.

A federal judge on Saturday denied a state government request to block the Trump administration's deployment of thousands of federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

In her ruling, District Court Judge Katherine Menendez stated that while the immigration enforcement operation has had and will likely continue to have profound and heartbreaking consequences for Minnesota, state officials failed to prove that the surge of ICE agents was unlawful.

The ruling comes amid nationwide protests following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, prompting demonstrators to organize rallies in various cities, including a significant gathering expected in Minneapolis.

Protesters have criticized the deployment, leading to calls for a ‘National Shutdown’ where citizens are encouraged to stay away from work and school to express opposition to ICE. The deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both residents shot by federal agents, have heightened tensions and concerns regarding ICE's operational procedures.

In her decision, Judge Menendez noted evidence of racial profiling and excessive force used by ICE officers but stated that no legal standards were provided by state officials to indicate when lawful enforcement turns into unlawful conduct.

Demonstrations have included forming the letters ‘SOS’ on a frozen lake and a concert performance in honor of the victims. Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey have called for the withdrawal of federal agents as the community seeks to address the implications of the ongoing operation.